Mini Dachshund Puppy Information

Cute, cuddly, long-bodied dogs: There is no mistaking a Mini Dachshund puppy. With wide eyes, soft coats and a nose for mischief, they are the fun favorite of dogs. Ever popular, the Dachshund has been in the top ten of most popular dogs based on the American Kennel Club registration records for decades.

History

Mini Dachshunds, then called Rabbit Teckel, were originally bred in Germany. During the 1800s Mini Dachshunds were specifically bred to hunt smaller game. Dachshunds became popular in the United States and Great Britain, but during WWI and WWII the breed's popularity and population declined due to their association with Germany. Thanks to dedicated breeders on both sides of the Atlantic, though, the Dachshund made a quick comeback.

Types

Mini Dachshunds come in three varieties: smooth-haired, long-haired, and wire-haired. Smooth-haired Minis have a coat that is smooth, short, and shiny. The tail is gradually tapered to a point. Long-haired Dachshunds have sleek, slightly wavy hair. Tails are where the hair is longest and forms an absolute flag. Wire-haired Minis are covered with tight, short, rough outer coats over their whole bodies except on the jaw, eyebrows, and ears. An undercoat of shorter, finer hairs can be seen between the coarser hairs. Tails are thickly haired and tapered to a point. Mini Dachshund puppies of all varieties come in all colors from solid reds and blacks to more exotic dapples and piebalds

Identification

The size range for a true Mini is anything under 11 lbs. although you will find some pushing the thirteen-pound mark that are claimed to be Minis. In truth, they are what some breeders call "tweenies," meaning they are between a Mini and a Standard. As puppies Mini Dachshunds look like a normal puppy. It is not until they are around three or four months old that they begin to gain their elongated look that makes them so distinctive. Tails and ears are not docked. Dew claws usually are not removed, but this varies from breeder to breeder.

Considerations

While deciding whether a Mini Dachshund pup is right for you, there are few things to consider. Because of their long backs, Mini Dachshunds should not be allowed to climb stairs in excess nor be allowed to jump from couches, chairs, or your arms. Time will take its toll, and back problems will arise in the future. Mini Dachshunds love food. Free choice feeding is not an option unless you want a long roly poly pup. Dachshunds as a rule make great playmates for kids; however, keep in mind that a Mini is small and can be hurt easily with too much rough play.

Training

Mini Dachshund puppies can be stubborn. They like to do things their own way, so starting from the day you welcome your puppy into your home, begin training. Start simple: housebreaking, basic obedience, no begging, no barking, no digging, no jumping. Once your puppy has mastered these things, it is time to consider advanced training such as the Canine Good Citizen. Yes, even a Mini Dachshund puppy can learn to be a good citizen.

References

• The Dachshund by Susan M. Ewing
• American Kennel Club